Technology Exclusive: A new Wii for U and me

HD GAMES: The Wii U videogame console will broadcast high-definition video and feature a touchscreen controller with the ability to detect motion and broadcast video that can interact and switch back and forth to the television display.

LOS ANGELES: Nintendo has unveiled its highly anticipated next-generation console, the Wii U. The new device will be capable of playing games in high definition (HD) - finally coming on par with the rival Xbox 360 and PlayStation3.

What is most surprising about the U is the new controller. It's a hefty rectangular device with a large 6.2in touchscreen in the centre, looking like a Tablet computer.

Fortunately, you won't be swinging it around like the existing Wii remote; instead it will have the traditional assortment of buttons and dual analogue sticks for game control. And the new controller will also feature a tilt-sensitive gyroscope and built-in microphone.

The U will be able to output HD visuals to both a TV and the screen on its controller, and at the same time. This opens up lot of possibilities for different kinds of game-playing experiences with the controller.

Most importantly, you won't be tied down to playing games on the TV; you will be able to play games on the go by taking the controller with you.

Nintendo demonstrated several new games for the U. The first is Chase Mii, a four-player hide-and-seek game where one player needs to hide from the rest within a maze. The three pursuers will need to co-operate and co-ordinate their searches to find the first player. On a whole, the game sort of plays like a game of Pac-Man, but with Mario-style visuals.

Another is Battle Mii, a third-person shooter for three players. In this one, two players in space suits team up against another that's in a gunship. Again, co-operation and communication is key if the two suited players are to successfully defeat their opponent.